What Levels of Voltage are Lethal?

Electrical Safety

Electricity is a powerful and versatile force that we use every day for various purposes, such as lighting, heating, cooling, and powering devices. However, electricity can also be dangerous and even deadly if it comes in contact with our bodies. The effects of electric shock depend on several factors, such as the type, level, and duration of the voltage, the path of the current through the body, and the individual’s health and resistance. In this article, we will explore what levels of voltage are lethal, what causes electric shock, what are the symptoms and consequences of electric shock, and how to prevent and treat electric shock.

What Is Voltage?

Voltage is a measure of the difference in electric potential energy between two points in an electric circuit. It is often compared to the pressure that pushes water through a pipe. The higher the voltage, the more energy is available to move electric charges, or electrons, through a conductor, such as a wire. Voltage is measured in volts (V).

What Causes Electric Shock?

Electric shock occurs when an electric current passes through the body. This can happen when a person touches a live wire, an exposed metal part of an electrical device, a lightning strike, or a static discharge. The current can enter and exit the body at different points, such as the hands, feet, head, or chest. The current can also flow through internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, brain, and nerves.

What Are the Effects of Electric Shock?

The effects of electric shock depend on the amount of current that flows through the body, which is determined by the voltage and the resistance of the body. Resistance is the opposition to the flow of current and varies depending on the type and condition of the tissue. Dry skin has a high resistance, while wet skin, blood, and internal organs have a low resistance. The lower the resistance, the higher the current for a given voltage.

The effects of electric shock can range from mild to severe, depending on the following factors:

The level of voltage: Low voltage (less than 500 V) can cause pain, muscle spasms, and burns. High voltage (more than 500 V) can cause deep burns, nerve damage, cardiac arrest, and death.
The type of current: Alternating current (AC) is more dangerous than direct current (DC), because AC can cause the muscles to contract and prevent the person from letting go of the source. AC also has a greater tendency to cause ventricular fibrillation, a rapid and irregular heartbeat that can be fatal. The frequency of AC also affects its danger. The standard frequency of AC in the United States is 60 hertz (Hz), which is more dangerous than higher frequencies, such as 400 Hz or 1,000 Hz.
The duration of contact: The longer the contact, the more damage is done. A brief contact (less than one second) may cause a mild shock, while a prolonged contact (more than one second) may cause serious injury or death.
The path of the current: The path of the current through the body determines which organs are affected. The most dangerous path is from hand to hand or from hand to foot, because it crosses the heart and can cause cardiac arrest. The least dangerous path is from foot to foot, because it bypasses the vital organs.
The individual’s health and resistance: The health and resistance of the person can influence the severity of the shock. People with heart problems, pacemakers, or metal implants are more vulnerable to electric shock. People with wet skin, wounds, or jewelry are more conductive and have lower resistance. People with higher body mass or muscle mass have higher resistance and may tolerate higher currents.

What Are the Symptoms of Electric Shock?

The symptoms of electric shock vary depending on the severity of the injury. Some common symptoms include:

Pain or tingling at the site of contact
Muscle contractions or spasms
Numbness or weakness in the limbs
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Irregular heartbeat or chest pain
Loss of consciousness or seizures
Confusion or memory loss
Headache or dizziness
Vision or hearing problems
Burns, blisters, or skin damage

How to Prevent Electric Shock?

Nearly all Electric shock incidents can be prevented by following some basic safety rules, such as:

Cover all outlets and use child-proof plugs
Ensure that wires are properly insulated and covered
Keep wires away from children’s reach and water sources
Turn off the power before doing any electrical work and use a non-contact voltage tester to make sure the circuits are off
Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in wet areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens, to prevent shocks from faulty appliances or wiring
Use surge protectors and avoid overloading outlets or extension cords
Wear rubber-soled shoes and gloves when working with electricity
Avoid touching metal objects or surfaces that may be electrified
Stay away from power lines, transformers, and lightning
Seek shelter indoors during thunderstorms and avoid using phones, computers, or other electrical devices

How to Treat Electric Shock?

In case someone does experience Electric shock, it's important to know what to do to help. Medical emergencies like this require immediate attention. If someone has been shocked, follow these steps:

Call 911 or the local emergency number and check for signs of breathing and pulse
If the person is not breathing, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) until help arrives
If the person is breathing, check for burns, wounds, or fractures and treat them accordingly
Do not move the person unless they are in immediate danger of further shock or injury
Do not touch the person or the source of the shock until the power is turned off or the source is removed
Do not apply ice, water, or ointment to the burns, as they may worsen the damage
Keep the person warm and comfortable until help arrives

How Much Voltage Can Kill You

The amount of voltage that can kill you depends on several factors, including the type of current (AC or DC), the duration of exposure, and the individual's physical characteristics. However, generally speaking, it is considered that a current of 100 milliamps (mA) flowing through the heart can be lethal.

This can be achieved with as little as 50 volts of AC current, which is why it is important to treat all electrical outlets and appliances with caution. While lower voltages may not be immediately lethal, they can still cause serious injuries, such as burns and muscle spasms.

It is always best to err on the side of caution and avoid contact with any electrical source, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications that can affect your heart.

How To Stay Safe Around Electricity

So, you've learned how dangerous electricity can be. But don't worry, there are a few simple things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Be mindful of your surroundings. Always be aware of your environment, especially when dealing with electricity. Look out for frayed cords, damaged outlets, or any signs of electrical problems. If you notice anything suspicious, don't hesitate to call a professional electrician to inspect and rectify the issue.
Avoid using electrical devices near water. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Never use electrical appliances or devices near water sources, such as sinks, bathtubs, or pools. This includes hairdryers, toasters, and even your smartphone.
Never attempt to repair electrical equipment yourself. Electrical repairs can be complex and dangerous. If you have any electrical problems, it's best to leave the repairs to a qualified electrician. Trying to fix things yourself could lead to serious accidents or injuries.
Use caution with extension cords. Extension cords can be convenient, but they should be used sparingly and with care. Avoid overloading them with too many appliances, and make sure they are in good condition. Inspect them regularly for any signs of damage, such as fraying or worn insulation.
Keep children away from electrical outlets and cords. Children are naturally curious and may be tempted to explore electrical outlets or cords. To prevent accidents, use child safety covers on unused outlets and keep cords out of reach. Teach your children about the dangers of electricity and supervise them closely when they are around electrical devices.
Turn off and unplug appliances when not in use. This simple habit can help prevent electrical fires and reduce energy consumption. When you're finished using an appliance, turn it off and unplug it from the outlet.

It's a good idea to have your home's electrical system inspected by a professional electrician every few years. This can help identify potential hazards and ensure that your electrical wiring is safe and up to code.

AC vs. DC: Lethality Comparison

When it comes to electrical safety, understanding the difference between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) is crucial. Both types of current can be dangerous, but there are some key differences in their lethality.

Alternating Current (AC): AC is the type of current most commonly found in homes and businesses. It changes direction periodically, alternating between positive and negative. AC is generally considered more dangerous than DC due to its ability to cause muscle contractions, making it difficult to release the electrical source. This can lead to a more prolonged exposure to the current, increasing the risk of injury or death.

Direct Current (DC): DC flows in a single direction, from positive to negative. While DC can still be dangerous, it is generally less lethal than AC. This is because DC tends to produce a more sustained contraction of the muscles, making it easier to release the electrical source. However,

DC can still cause serious injuries, especially if the exposure is prolonged or the current is high.

Factors Affecting Lethality: The lethality of both AC and DC depends on several factors, including:

Current: The amount of current flowing through the body is the primary factor determining the severity of an electrical shock. Higher currents are more likely to cause serious injuries or death.
Voltage: While voltage can affect the severity of an electrical shock, it is generally less important than current. However, higher voltages can increase the risk of electrical arcing, which can cause burns and other injuries.
Duration of Exposure: The length of time a person is exposed to an electrical current can significantly impact the outcome. Prolonged exposure is more likely to cause serious injuries or death.
Path of Current: The path of the current through the body can also affect the severity of the shock. If the current passes through the heart, it can cause cardiac arrest.

Both AC and DC can be lethal, but AC is generally considered more dangerous due to its ability to cause muscle contractions and prolong exposure. However, the severity of an electrical shock depends on several factors, including current, voltage, duration of exposure, and the path of the current through the body. It is important to treat all electrical sources with caution and take steps to prevent accidents.

Electricity is a useful and essential part of our lives, but it can also be dangerous and lethal if not handled properly. The level of voltage that can cause death depends on several factors, such as the type, duration, and path of the current, and the individual’s health and resistance. Electric shock can cause various symptoms and complications, such as burns, nerve damage, cardiac arrest, and death. Electric shock can be prevented by following safety rules and using protective devices. Electric shock can be treated by calling for help, performing CPR, and caring for the injuries. By being aware of the risks and taking precautions, we can enjoy the benefits of electricity without putting ourselves or others in harm’s way.

Additional voltage facts:

According to a rule of thumb, more than 50 Volts is sufficient to drive a potentially lethal current through the body. Other factors that can determine the severity of an electric shock include the duration of the shock and where the shock enters the body. Other voltage levels that can cause injury or death include:

2,700 volts: the person almost always dies or experiences severe injury. Source: https://www.creativesafetysupply.com/qa/electrical-safety/what-levels-of-voltage-are-lethal
1,100 volts: the victim will most likely die. Source: https://www.metroid.net.au/engineering/knowledge_center/fatal-electric-shock-what-voltage-causes-death/
42 volts: humans have died at this voltage, though chances of survival are much better. Source: https://www.scienceabc.com/humans/how-many-volts-amps-kill-you-human.html
200 mA (0.1 to 0.2 amp): Currents above 200 milliamps (0.2 amp), while producing severe burns and unconsciousness, do not usually cause death if the victim is given immediate attention. Source: https://www.asc.ohio-state.edu/physics/p616/safety/fatal_current.html

The type of voltage also matters for the risk of electric shock. Alternating current (AC) is more dangerous than direct current (DC) because AC can cause muscle spasms that prevent the victim from letting go of the source. AC also has a greater tendency to disrupt the heart rhythm and cause fibrillation. The frequency of AC also affects its danger, with higher frequencies being less harmful than lower frequencies. Source: https://www.seniorcare2share.com/is-dc-or-ac-more-dangerous/
The resistance of the human body varies depending on the skin condition, the contact area, the moisture level, and the body part. Dry skin can have a resistance of up to 100,000 ohms, while wet skin can have a resistance of 1,000 ohms or less. The internal resistance between the ears is only 100 ohms, while it is around 500 ohms when measured from finger to toe. The resistance of the internal organs is much lower than the skin, which means that a higher current can flow through them. Source: https://electronics.stackexchange.com/questions/19103/how-much-voltage-current-is-dangerous
The path of the current through the body is also critical for the outcome of an electric shock. The most dangerous path is from hand to hand or from hand to foot, as this can pass through the heart and cause cardiac arrest. The least dangerous path is from foot to foot, as this can bypass the vital organs. The location of the entry and exit wounds can also indicate the path of the current and the extent of the damage. Source: https://www.quora.com/Which-one-is-more-dangerous-high-voltage-low-current-or-low-voltage-high-current

FAQ’s

Can a low voltage electric shock be deadly?

While it's generally true that higher voltages are more dangerous, even low voltage electric shocks can be deadly under certain circumstances. The severity of an electric shock depends on factors like the amount of current flowing through the body, the duration of exposure, and the individual's health condition. In some cases, a low voltage shock can cause cardiac arrest or other serious injuries, especially if it passes through the heart.

How much voltage can the human body withstand?

There's no definitive answer to this question as the human body's tolerance to electrical shock varies from person to person. However, it's generally accepted that a current of around 100 milliamps (mA) flowing through the heart can be lethal. This can be achieved with as little as 50 volts of AC current. It's important to remember that even lower voltages can cause serious injuries, so it's always best to avoid contact with any electrical source.

What should I do if someone is experiencing an electric shock?

If you witness someone experiencing an electric shock, it's crucial to act quickly and safely. Here are the steps you should take:

Disconnect the power source: If possible, turn off the power at the breaker or unplug the device. This will prevent the victim from receiving further shocks.
Ensure your safety: Before attempting to help the victim, make sure you are not in danger of receiving a shock yourself. Use a non-conductive object, like a wooden broom handle or a dry towel, to move the victim away from the electrical source.
Call for help: Immediately call emergency services (e.g., 911) to request medical assistance.
Check for vital signs: Once the victim is safe, check for signs of breathing and a pulse. If necessary, administer CPR until medical help arrives.

Can electric shock cause long-term effects?

Yes, electric shock can cause long-term effects, even if the initial injury seems minor. These effects can include:

Muscle damage: Electrical shocks can cause muscle damage, leading to pain, weakness, or even paralysis.
Heart problems: Electric shocks can disrupt the heart's electrical rhythm, leading to heart arrhythmias or even cardiac arrest.
Cognitive impairment: In some cases, electrical shock can cause cognitive problems, such as memory loss or difficulty concentrating.
Psychological trauma: Experiencing an electrical shock can be a traumatic event, leading to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

How can I prevent electrical accidents?

There are several steps you can take to prevent electrical accidents in your home or workplace:

Regularly inspect electrical equipment: Check for frayed cords, damaged outlets, or other signs of electrical problems.
Avoid using electrical devices near water: Water and electricity don't mix, so keep electrical appliances away from sinks, bathtubs, and pools.
Don't overload circuits: Overloading circuits can cause fires or other electrical hazards.
Use child safety covers on outlets: Protect children from electrical hazards by using child safety covers on unused outlets.
Hire a qualified electrician for repairs or installations: If you need electrical repairs or installations, always hire a licensed electrician to ensure the work is done safely and correctly.